The Dulabhatorn Story
Where It Began
The Dulabhatorn Foundation was established in 2007 by siblings Brian and Marianne Doberstyn, in loving memory of their parents, Edward and Delphine Doberstyn. After two years of preparatory work, it officially opened in January 2009 in Sansai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
It is a non-religious, non-political, non-profit organisation, registered as a charity with the Royal Thai Government.
A Name Bestowed by Royalty
The name Dulabhatorn — pronounced "moon-nithi dtoo-la-pa-torn" — was graciously given by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. It is built from three Sanskrit elements, each one a founding principle of the organisation:
Dula — Justice and Equity
Bha — Light
Torn — Caring
Her Royal Highness also created the Foundation's insignia: a drawing of two children sharing a book. It represents the belief that opportunity, dignity, and learning belong to everyone.
The Foundation operates under royal patronage — a distinction that reflects the trust placed in our work and our commitment to the highest standards of care and practice.
What We Stand For
The Foundation was built on a conviction that has never changed: every child and young person, regardless of ability, deserves access to quality therapeutic, educational, and vocational exploration programmes. And no family should face a financial barrier to receiving that support.
All programmes are provided at no cost to participants.
That commitment is funded entirely through donor support, with every donation reaching the programme directly.
A Place of Learning and Professional Exchange
Over the years, the Foundation has grown into a recognised site for professional and academic exchange. DBF welcomes interns from Thai and international universities, as well as visiting professionals seeking hands-on, cross-cultural experience in developmental disability practice.
These partnerships strengthen the team, deepen the programmes, and connect DBF to a broader global community working toward the same goals.
Where We Are Today
The Dulabhatorn Foundation now operates a broad range of programmes spanning therapy, education, vocational exploration, and community inclusion. Rooted in Sansai District, Chiang Mai, DBF serves the families and communities of Northern Thailand — and has done so since 2007.
We are grateful to every donor, partner, therapist, educator, caregiver, and family who has been part of the journey.
To find out more about DBF's programmes, visit our About page or contact the team at contact@dulabhatornfoundation.com or +66 (0) 53 350 303.
In Memory of Brian Doberstyn (1944–2023)
Brian Doberstyn co-founded the Dulabhatorn Foundation alongside his sister Marianne and remained its most devoted supporter until his death in 2023. For more than fifteen years he gave without reservation — financially, personally, and with an unwavering belief in the Foundation's work. The programmes he helped fund and the children whose lives changed because of his commitment are his enduring legacy. The Foundation continues under the direction of Marianne Doberstyn, guided by the values they built together.